This month’s race spotlight takes us to the sand dunes of Ilocos Norte, and to a simultaneous six-venue fun run.

Taray Pamulinawen Laoag Marathon on February 25

It’s obviously too late to start training now for a full marathon happening in two weeks, but if you happen to be in Laoag on the weekend of February 25, prepare to be caught up in the festivities of the Taray Pamulinawen Laoag Marathon, part of the fiesta of St. William the hermit, Laoag City’s patron saint.

“Taray” (accent on the second syllable) is the Ilocano word for “run”. From a longest distance of 11 miles last year, the city of Laoag has taken the leap to organizing a full marathon. I’ve been to Laoag once and the described route is a full tour through its picturesque streets, lonely highways, and famous sights. The route will take runners through the famed sand dunes, the sinking bell tower, Gilbert Bridge, the Tobacco Monopoly Monument that stands in the city proper, and Fort Ilocandia.

For those not ready for a full marathon, there are also shorter distances: 750-meter kids dash; 5K; 10K; 21K; and a 42-kilometer mixed relay.

(Don’t forget to have some empanada post-race; it’s a great recovery food!)

Don Bosco Fun Run: Run, Jump, Make Noise on February 26

Don Bosco schools have been educating Philippine youth since the 1950’s. To celebrate their 60th year, they are staging a simultaneous fun run in six venues: Quirino Grandstand (Manila), Nuvali (Laguna), Clark (Pampanga), San Jose (Nueva Ecija), Naga City (Camarines Sur), and Legazpi City (Albay).

The Don Bosco Fun Run is a fund-raising activity to create a trust fund for the eight Don Bosco Technical-Vocational Education and Training centers. The TVET schools impart technical skills to marginalized youth, enabling them to find employment with car manufacturers, technical offices, and the like. Apart from the free schooling, Don Bosco also funds basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, and medical assistance.

Registration is at P350 for all categories (3K, 5K, 10K), with all proceeds going directly toward the TVET trust fund.